DHAKA: Shakib Al Hasan, the seasoned Bangladeshi player, is opting to prioritize his international career across all cricket formats over lucrative franchise opportunities.
Despite his ongoing recovery from a finger injury sustained during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, Shakib intends to make a comeback in Bangladesh’s domestic T20 tournament next month and set his sights on participating in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
While enticed by the prospect of participating in various global domestic tournaments, Shakib is steadfast in his commitment to represent his nation in all three formats of the game.
Having been a consistent presence in the last five editions of the 50-over World Cup, leading Bangladesh’s T20I run tally, and maintaining his pivotal role in Test cricket, the 36-year-old remains resolute about extending his illustrious international career. He’s willing to forgo opportunities in white-ball tournaments worldwide to ensure his continued leadership and performance for Bangladesh.
Regarding his franchise cricket involvement, Shakib clarified, “I opted out of IPL and instructed my manager to withdraw my name from the PSL draft. My focus now is solely on the national team. I’m committed to playing across three formats, hoping to sustain this rhythm in the future. However, uncertainties prevail, and while I desire a prolonged cricketing journey, only time will reveal what lies ahead.”
Bangladesh faced a challenging World Cup campaign in India, securing two victories but falling short of the knockout stages. However, they exhibited significant improvement during their recent ICC World Test Championship series against New Zealand on home turf, managing a draw.
Shakib was initially set to feature in the forthcoming white-ball series in New Zealand, encompassing three ODIs and three T20Is. However, following advice to prioritize his recovery, he has opted out of the tour to continue rehabilitation from his injury.
“I was hoping that I will be going to New Zealand for the ODI and T20I series as now the team is departing for the tour and I was planning in that way because I felt I will be ok by four weeks,” Shakib added.
“But I have consulted a doctor two days back and he asked me to wait as I will need another two weeks and later start the rehabilitation.
“It is taking more time than expected as it will need six weeks and the next option is that after doing the rehabilitation and gaining fitness, I don’t see any other way before BPL and there is election and so I will be busy so I will return to competitive cricket through BPL and can play from the start of BPL by getting full fitness.”
